Jerry Joe Jacobson

So sad to learn of Jerry's passing. He had a huge impact on my life, and I will always be in his debt. The moments we shared have been memorable, and I'll always admire his patriotism and tenacity. God bless you, JJJ.

I just learned of Mr. Jacobson's passing the other day. Because of him, I was able to complete a junior high and high school education that was otherwise, unattainable. More importantly, it is because of his generous giving that allowed me to be in a place where I found stability and examples of Godly men and women....a place where I was loved and supported through very hard times. I was able to meet him and his wife on the last senior chapel day at CVCA. He presented me with a Bible with my name engraved on it and a personal note on the inside cover. It is still the Bible I read to this day and it constantly reminds me of the man that gave so generously in a way that changed my life eternally. See you on the streets of gold Mr. Jacobson!!

Jerry gave me my first opportunity to work for a shortline railroad company. I will never forget his leadership, generosity, passion, and dedication to his employees. My deepest sympathies to Laura and family.

Jerry was a huge benefactor to the Montour Railroad Historical Society and in keeping memories of the Montour alive. First and foremost to our group, Jerry was a railfan, sharing many of the same interests that entertain our group of Montour enthusiasts.
He authorized many acquisitions of former Montour equipment and memorabilia to be used at his Age of Steam Roundhouse. Two original Montour SW-9 locomotives were acquired. A hopper car was painted in the Montour scheme for use in photo freight runs. A couple of old tool sheds were brought to the roundhouse complex because they were from the Montour and Jerry agreed that they should not be thrown into a dumpster. The speeder car that lived in one such tool shed was brought in to live in a Montour shed again. A replica Montour telephone booth was built for the site and equipped with original Montour telephones. Other items of Montour origin have been purchased and preserved at the roundhouse, either as displays or rehabilitated and gaining new life as working items.
The biggest contribution to the MRHS was made when Jerry agreed to donate the X1 railroad crane to our fledgling group in 2008. The X1 was returned to Montour territory in Peters Township, PA, where it still resides beside the Montour Trail as a historical display.
Thank you Jerry, for all you have done to keep railroading and especially steam railroading alive for all of us and for future generations. All Montour fans are grateful for your generosity.
Godspeed and clear tracks.

Dear Laura,
I learned of Jerry's home going this morning from mutual friend Al McIntosh. I was saddened to hear this news and wanted to extend my deepest condolences to you and to your family on your great loss. I found Jerry to be remarkable in a host of ways, but greatly admired his heart for the underdog and his enthusiasm for helping those who needed a hand up (as was the case with many CVCA students he helped over the years. May it be of some consolation to know that you will be in our prayers in the days and weeks to come. Roger Taylor and your friends at CVCA

Jerry was one of the most fantastic people I've ever met in my life. He was so gracious and compassionate; I'll never forget how he put me through junior high and high school at CVCA because he saw something bright in me. He'll never be forgotten.

I guess I always thought he would be immortal. What a lucky break in life to have met such a fantastic man. My life would have never been so good if I would not have met and worked for him. Every time a hear the old steam whistle, I'll think of him. God bless Laura and the entire family.

I just want to say that it was a pleasure working with Jerry and the family and Debbie, Jerry had fought a good fight, going out in the fashion that he lived his life God Bless Marge Currey